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Thursday, 21 April 2016

4K@30fps waterproof action camera suggestion

Usually, I don't recommend cameras for video, as a photographer's job is static and has little to do with action, but there are a few times when an independent product review just sells the product without the technicalities and specification comparison.

(You can also read my short review in a while)Browsing the net for action cameras, I came across this little gem from Gearbest, currently selling at 70 Euros (promo is running for 3 days and there are currently 17 pieces left). The gem is named EKEN H8R 170 Degree Wide Angle 4K Ultra HD WiFi Action Camera and it comes with really good hardware specifications and video sample comparison (and review) in a youtube video. But let's start in the beginning and take a look at the specifications, having in mind that we are talking for a 75 euro 4K action camera. This version comes with a remote controller in form of a wrist band that you can use to trigger recording, a very useful free addition to this offer.

I watched the very good video review/comparison against GoPro Hero4 at similar settings and drew very useful conclusions.

1. I just bought one myself!

2. It is sharper than GoPro Hero 4 at 4K (and everywhere else), actually it is super sharp without any processing

3. It has better contrast, which is a problem in night recording as it lacks shadow details

4. White balance is getting blue as the sun disappears

5. 50 minute total recording time is the best choice when you only need clips, but you need to drop to 1080p to record 1,5 hours of video

6. You almost certainly need post processing (as with every video footage) which means you need a fast pc for 4K and a good titler and video processing program

7. You need a fast internet line if you upload 4K videos

8. It comes with waterproof housing

9. This version comes with wireless remote (there's another version without the remote not worth checking)

10. It comes with every stand you can use (for bikes etc)edit: 11. If maximum actual video resolution is 4K at only 15 fps (which means this is not as advertised) it would be very disappointing. However, shooting 1080p at 60fps is more than enough for my needs.edit: 12. I found out that there is no gyro stabilization which means videos are going to be jerky. Well this is a major issue, as there are going to be very few times when you need this action camera fixedin a non-moving stand. However, I am currently working on a hardware (steadycam) and software solution on that (Adobe Premiere stabilization plugin).

I want to make clear that I am not getting any promo codes or special price to say my opinion for this camera, I just saw it and felt it was a good buy at a good price.

I can make my own review when I get it and use it, if I get messages requesting me to do so. So, send me a line if you believe you will benefit from such a review.